Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District & 2015 SafeZone Collaborative ANNUAL REPORT Letter from the Chair of the Board of Directors and President & Chief Executive Officer ...... 1 Minneapolis Downtown About ...... 2 Improvement District & Approach...... 3 2015 SafeZone Collaborative Hospitality Zone Assessment & Tactical Urbanism ...... 4 Nicollet Mall Project Begins & MDID Strategic Plan ...... 5 Shaping Your Downtown Experience...... 6 Enhancing and Greening the Public Realm...... 7 Keeping Downtown Clean, Vibrant & Pedestrian Friendly . . . 8 ANNUAL Safety Collaborations Throughout Downtown ...... 9 Our Ambassadors & Livability Team ...... 10 Looking Forward...... 11 Financial Statements...... 12 REPORT Board of Directors, Staff & Committees ...... 13

Letter from the Board Chair and President & Chief Executive Officer

Dear Downtown Stakeholder,

It’s hard to believe another year has come and gone here in Downtown Minneapolis…and what a year it was! There is so much to be excited about as we build on the progress we made in 2015 and embrace the opportunities ahead.

Last year we developed important building blocks that will enable us to continue fostering an extraordinary downtown experience for everyone who lives, works, plays and explores here. The Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District (MDID) completed and adopted a four-year Strategic Plan. Through a deliberative and inclusive information gathering process that included outreach, workshops, focus groups and a stakeholder task force, we received broad-based feedback on how we can continue to include and best serve our ratepayers and the downtown community. We learned that our current services are effective, but that they can be improved and that our district boundaries could be expanded to serve more areas of our growing downtown. As part of our strategic assessment, we also strengthened the role of ratepayers in the decision-making process so that the services we deliver are truly meeting their needs.

In addition to daily delivery of “clean, green and safe” programming, MDID played a leadership role on key issues affecting downtown. Because many maintenance activities for Nicollet Mall are our responsibility, staff has been actively involved in the design process and has facilitated effective communication about the new Nicollet Mall Project. MDID engaged the Responsible Hospitality Institute to assist with evaluating our late night entertainment scene, and with the help of many dozen stakeholders issued a series of priority recommendations that are being acted on. And our Tactical Urbanism Committee continues to experiment with innovative ways to improve the quality of life and vitality in downtown.

In the ensuing pages of this year’s Annual Report, you’ll see how MDID has made an impact both through current actions and preparation for the future. This is an incredible time to be part of the downtown community, and we’re pleased to share with you MDID’s 2015 record. We are most excited to work with you in the year ahead and sincerely appreciate your commitment to keeping Downtown Minneapolis such a great place to live, work, play and explore. Thank you for your continued support.

Respectfully yours,

Tom Hoch Steve Cramer Chair, Board of Directors President & CEO President & CEO Minneapolis Downtown Council Hennepin Theatre Trust Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District

1 Letter from the Chair of the Board of Directors and President & Chief Executive Officer ...... 1 About ...... 2 Approach...... 3 Hospitality Zone Assessment & Tactical Urbanism ...... 4 Nicollet Mall Project Begins & MDID Strategic Plan ...... 5 Shaping Your Downtown Experience...... 6 Enhancing and Greening the Public Realm...... 7 Keeping Downtown Clean, Vibrant & Pedestrian Friendly . . . 8 Safety Collaborations Throughout Downtown ...... 9 Our Ambassadors & Livability Team ...... 10 Looking Forward...... 11 Financial Statements...... 12 Board of Directors, Staff & Committees ...... 13 ABOUT MINNEAPOLIS DID

The Minneapolis Downtown Improvement globally benefitting services based on Minneapolis Downtown Council (MDC) District (MDID) is a business-led, 501(c)6 GBA. Charges are prorated to properties voted to align their governance structure, non-profit with a mission to make based on location within pedestrian allowing for the same individuals to serve downtown Minneapolis a vibrant and service level areas. This three-part on the boards of both organizations, attractive place for recruiting and method best reflects the volume of establishing the MDID as a wholly- retaining businesses, employees, people needing service and the level of controlled subsidiary of MDC. This served residents, shoppers, students and visitors. services delivered. The Board of Directors to broaden the leadership team, thereby This is accomplished by providing services is comprised of downtown property providing more resources and experience, that make over 120 blocks of downtown owners, employers, residents and leaders enhancing the existing services and cleaner, greener and safer. MDID also representing key constituencies and areas assuring that both organizations are serves as a catalyst, facilitator, convener of expertise. MDID staff oversee vendors, unified in their mutual efforts to make and promoter of public-private partner- develop programs, advocate for the public downtown Minneapolis extraordinary. ships, collaborations and services that realm, communicate with stakeholders enhance the downtown experience. and administer the organization.

MDID is primarily funded by special While the MDID partners and collaborates service assessments. In 2008, a majority with many like-missioned organizations, of commercial property owners signed a few strategic alignments have been petitions agreeing to the ordinance that integral to an effective and efficient use of created the MDID. In 2013, this ordinance resources. In the 1960s, the Nicollet Mall was renewed with support from a Advisory Board was established by statute substantial majority of commercial to provide advice to the City on all issues property owners agreeing to tax them- related to the Nicollet Mall. When MDID selves to collectively raise the standard was formed, it assumed the roles and of care and behavior in downtown – with responsibilities of the Nicollet Mall a focus on enhancing competitiveness. Advisory Board. In 2006, Minneapolis By statute, only commercial properties are SafeZone Collaborative (MSZ) was formed required to pay the MDID assessments. as a 501(c)3 to bring public and private The district is divided into three service However, as all properties benefit from an sectors together through collaborative Core Standard Plus improved public realm downtown, some strategies in safety, greening and other level areas: , and non-profit, government and residential projects that enhance downtown and Standard . These areas were determined properties voluntarily contribute. improve safety. In 2009, MSZ became a based upon the level of pedestrian activity wholly-controlled subsidiary of MDID, and the resulting need for intensity of More than 1,000 properties consisting giving it stability to successfully service to maintain a consistent standard. of over 64 million square feet of Gross continue public-private collaborations, Building Area (GBA) are located within and a broader platform from which to The service level areas can be modified the MDID boundaries. Properties are establish initiatives for downtown. And as needed to reflect any land use changes assessed for directly lineal services most recently, effective January 1, 2013, that result in changes to pedestrian based on lineal frontage and for more the boards of the MDID and the activity patterns and intensity.

2 APPROACH

It is true within any community or city MDID programs and collaborations. In that perception is reality. Being able to this year’s Annual Report, you will see the feel as though you are in a safe and clean varying programs and plans that helped environment goes a long way toward shape the perception and experience of helping shape the complexion of a city. those who lived, worked and played in It is important to ensure Downtown downtown over the past year. Minneapolis feels green, feels clean and feels safe. Each year, MDID evaluates our Our close partnerships with the City tactics of making downtown more inviting of Minneapolis, East Downtown Council, and attractive. We understand that all Warehouse District Business Association, areas of our 120-block district are business leaders, community distinctly diverse and economically organizations, street outreach teams mixed, and it is important that we and neighborhood groups all play a big continue communicating with you as we role in accomplishing our overall goals. evolve with our ever-changing downtown. With that in mind, our goals for 2015 For more on MDID’s approach, visit were focused on enhancing downtown’s MinneapolisDID.com/approach vibrancy and experience through our

PERCEPTION SURVEY: SHAPING OUR DOWNTOWN

2014 B 2015 B 2015 Issues in 2014 Surveyed 2015 Programs Implemented 2015 Perception Survey Results

Loitering and safety concerns on Hospitality Zone Assessment, an inclusive 2% nights and weekends. planning effort focused on assessing and Traffic improving nightlife safety and economic 3% outcomes. (page 4) Public Intoxication 8% 3% Other Concerns about public urination. Little Free Lavatory, a free public restroom, Lack of Other People was placed on the corner of 12th and 7% 37% Nicollet near Peavey Plaza as a pilot project, Lack of Police No Safety Fall 2015. (page 6) Concerns 8% Awareness regarding MDID and MDID began engaging in downtown events Groups of Youth its initiatives. including sponsoring Northern Spark, 23% Open Streets and the Downtown Skating 9% Loitering Rink. Ambassadors presence and placement Panhandling of the MDID Information Booth. (page 11) Top Safety Concerns Sidewalk width and amenities. The First Avenue Walkway pilot project expanded pedestrian space along a narrow 2% sidewalk on one of the busiest blocks Vacant Buildings 3% Other in the entertainment district. (page 8) 4% Spills or Odors 6% Need for increased focus Additional Tactical Urbanism work along Broken Sidewalks on public realm. with local partners. MDID staff participation in design development for 9% street reconstruction projects. (page 7-8) Litter 53% No Cleanliness Groups of youth and their behavior Worked with YouthLINK Street Outreach Concerns downtown. team as a funding partner. Youth 10% Coordinating Board/YouthLINK street Construction outreach tent. (page 9) 13% Spit, Vomit, Security presence concern. Continued to retain work with MPD Police Urine, etc Reserves as an ongoing program. (page 9) Top Cleanliness Concerns Look for our next Perception Survey to be launched in Fall 2016. Your feedback helps us create new programs and initiatives throughout our downtown. Please take part by visiting MinneapolisDID.com/perceptionsurvey

3 HOSPITALITY ZONE ASSESSMENT

In a focused effort to enhance the vibrancy Overall community participation was MEMBERS OF THE of downtown Minneapolis’ late-night a strength during the Hospitality Zone TRANSFORMATION TEAM scene, MDID engaged the Responsible Assessment, particularly with the Nicole Archbold (City of Minneapolis, Hospitality Institute (RHI) to conduct a involvement of city staff and support Mayor’s Office), Deputy Chief Medaria Hospitality Zone Assessment in downtown of elected city officials. RHI has Arradondo (Minneapolis Police Minneapolis, which included a review of performed similar assessments across Department), Bill Dossett (Nice Ride MN), six core elements for strengthening the the country and said Minneapolis was a Tim Drew (City of Minneapolis, Public late-night economy, safety and overall leader in several practices, including experience: participation and quality of life efforts. Works), Adam Harrington (Metro Transit), Sixteen community leaders participated Steve Hark (Twin Cities Entertainment, • Public Safety on a Transformation Team to guide Inc.), Mike Jungers (ABM), Joanne Kaufman • Venue Safety the planning effort, and more than (Warehouse District Business Association), • Transportation 90 stakeholders participated overall in Peter Killen (CARA Irish Pubs), Inspector • Quality of Life planning sessions to identify trends Michael Kjos (Minneapolis Police and opportunities for improvement in Department), Jodi Molenaar-Hanson • Entertainment Minneapolis’ late night economy and (City of Minneapolis, City Coordinator’s • Multi-Use Sidewalks visitor experience. Office),Kjersti Monson (City of Minneapolis, CPED), John Power (Loews Minneapolis RHI visited Minneapolis between August Throughout 2016 MDID will continue Hotel), Heidi Ritchie (City of Minneapolis, and December 2015 to meet with key to serve as a convener and facilitator elected officials, hospitality industry as partners and stakeholders work on Council Member Jacob Frey’s Office, Third stakeholders, and development and implementation of the action plan Ward), Andy Warg (Target Center) and community leaders to assess the late- created through this effort. Grant Wilson (City of Minneapolis, CPED) night vitality of downtown—particularly in the Warehouse District. View the Hospitality Zone Assessment Report by visiting MinneapolisDID.com/reports

TACTICAL URBANISM

Tactical Urbanism is a MDID program data, stakeholder feedback, and findings that focuses on how the way public places from our annual MDID Perception Survey. are designed and programmed influence This background information provides people’s experiences downtown. insights on specific places and issues Specifically, how low-cost, temporary of concern for which Tactical Urbanism TACTICAL URBANISM PARTNERS: projects and prototypes can improve projects can be most impactful. City of Minneapolis real and perceived safety. You can learn more about our Tactical Juxtaposition Arts Tactical Urbanism work is guided by an Urbanism projects throughout this Metro Transit Advisory Committee (see page 14) that Annual Report and at The Musicant Group/Onyx Cycles prioritizes sites and reviews project MinneapolisDID.com/tui concepts. The committee reviews crime Warehouse District Business Association

4 NICOLLET MALL PROJECT BEGINS

The Nicollet Mall Project will add offering advice while following through In addition, electricity was not consistently greening and an enhanced pedestrian in areas that will affect our long term available along the mall causing us to experience to the Nicollet Mall between maintenance responsibilities. make the hard decision not to “light up the Grant Street and Washington Avenue. mall” with our traditional snowflakes and The project began in 2015 with some of Along the way in 2015, MDID has been twinkle lights during the winter season. the work being very visible, like the directly communicating with local closing of the mall to buses and the stakeholders regarding how the Nicollet Nicollet’s reconstruction process phase start of some very robust utility work. Mall Project is affecting MDID services. is slated to begin midway through 2016, But work has also taken place in Most affected in 2015 has been our with substantial completion by the end meetings and planning rooms around greening efforts—while only a few of 2017. In the meantime, the MDID downtown. Many stakeholder meetings permanent planters were removed, staff will be hard at work coordinating were held in the MDC-MDID offices water for our irrigation system was with project staff and developing the throughout the spring as the project unavailable in those that remained most efficient and effective plan to keep and design teams continued the work on intact. We called upon our Ambassadors it clean, green and safe as our city's refining the design and specific materials. to hand water plants in an effort to must-see destination. Throughout this process the MDID keep the area as green and vibrant as operations team has been engaged and possible through this transitional stage.

MDID STRATEGIC PLAN

vision for continuing to create and foster tions included increasing staff support, an extraordinary downtown, it is impor- simplification and expansion of service tant that we position ourselves to play a level areas, and further consideration of concerted role in accomplishing the potential expansion areas for the district The 2025 Plan’s mission where its goals boundaries. Overall, there is an opportu- overlap with ours. Our strategic plan nity to establish mechanisms that allow process included forming a task force the district to be responsive to a changing comprised of stakeholders, governance downtown environment. and staff to come together and discuss parameters and expectations. Through Future opportunities include more discussions with key city, business and greening, walkability and pedestrian development leaders and coordinating experience-enhancing initiatives like During 2015, MDID evaluated its strategic focus groups, MDID’s task force gathered wayfinding, connections and applications, direction. Now six years into its work information and reviewed the input. After expanded programming, safety and creating a greener, cleaner and safer compiling the input and evaluating the advocacy, maintaining new public spaces downtown Minneapolis, it was the right financial sensitivity of changing service and communicating these efforts to all time to evaluate how our current levels and potentially the boundaries of the who share and enjoy our downtown. blueprint and services are working in district, the presentation of the strategic relation to our ever-changing community. plan was presented to the governing board. Through this vision, MDID continues to We evaluated lessons learned from bring a strong philosophy on creating outreach during MDID’s renewal process, The task force concluded that the current and maintaining a greener, cleaner and determined best practices, and con- MDID services are effective, valued safer downtown. This new strategic plan firmed that our operations are equitably and should be continued, and it recom- requires hard work and collaboration, but funded and delivered. Additionally, with mended expanding services to include the vision it puts in place sets the tone for the overarching vision of the Minneapolis programming related to vibrancy and enhancing the vibrancy of our community Downtown Council's Intersections: perceived safety. Other recommenda- for years to come. The Downtown 2025 Plan as a long-term

5 SHAPING YOUR DOWNTOWN EXPERIENCE

LITTLE FREE LAVATORY LIVING ROOM STATION Public feedback over the past year MDID Perception Survey feedback has indicated both an interest in more highlighted concerns with public safety free public restrooms downtown and at high ridership bus stops, especially in concerns about public urination. In an locations without a permanent shelter. In attempt to explore public restrooms in collaboration with The Musicant Group and other downtown projects, and in recogni- Onyx Cycles, the "Living Room Station" tion that our only current programmatic pilot project debuted in October — response to public urination is power- transforming a Metro Transit bus stop washing sidewalks after the fact, MDID at South 6th Street and Nicollet Mall wanted to learn more about how a high into an inviting community space. This quality public restroom would be used Tactical Urbanism project aimed to make and perceived. The “Little Free Lavatory” this particular downtown space feel pilot project (at right) featured flushable safer through this temporary experiment, and ADA-compliant fixtures, and ran which included seating and programming. from October 7 through November 4 During peak hours on any given evening, on the south end of Peavey Plaza (12th riders could receive free flowers and Street and Nicollet Mall). The Little Free card making for family and friends, hot Lav project was designed to address tea and board games, umbrella escorts the challenging issues of adding public on rainy days, pumpkin carving, music, restrooms and helping limit public apple cider and Trick or Treating. The urination by putting these lavatories in placement and design parameters of “If the little things in life are the a high-traffic area. Little Free Lav was Living Room Station were developed ones that count the most, the well-received by local businesses and through conversations with Metro Transit Little Free Lav project on 12th used without any maintenance or staff, Shorenstein Realty Services, LP security concerns for the duration of (owners of the adjacent City Center) and Nicollet counts a lot. I the pilot project. and MDID staff. The Living Room Station applaud the way it has been is one of four Bus Stop Pilot Projects implemented and hope it sets PLACEMAKING RESIDENCY commissioned for high-ridership bus the stage for a more permanent As part of the fourth annual Placemaking stops downtown, with the other three Residency event presented by the St. Paul scheduled to follow in 2016. strategy for all of our downtown Riverfront Corporation, MDID along with visitors.” the Minneapolis Downtown Council and JUXTAPOSITION ARTS — Downtown Employee the East Downtown Council highlighted STREET PERFORMANCE the past, present and future of Portland RESEARCH PROJECT Avenue as a residential corridor in May In an effort to learn more about percep- “I see people coming and going 2015. Portland Avenue is a one-way street tions of downtown street performances, throughout the day. I watch the that acts as a main artery connecting MDID engaged Juxtaposition Arts in downtown to South Minneapolis. The Fall 2015 to interview street performers crew clean the lavs regularly. placemaking event highlighted today’s and passers-by. The project offered vast The welcome mat of artificial Portland Avenue functionality and how insights, including that performers turf in front of the lavs even it could morph into a more pedestrian- busk to connect with other artists and contributes to the ‘greening’ of friendly, greener, residential corridor. interact with the public, that many people The day’s event included a seminar on support street performances, that downtown. Clearly, this project designing healthy communities with performers want continued access to by the MDID is meeting a basic Dr. Richard Jackson of PBS, a walking/ safe and unpermitted places to perform, human need.” biking tour from the Stone Arch Bridge and that several were interested in an to Franklin Avenue, a workshop discus- intentional community building, public sion at Kraus-Anderson, a lunch and pilot workshops or performances with others. — Downtown Employee project narrowing Portland Avenue at the future Downtown East Commons site, and a panel discussion at the Mill City Museum. All activities were free and open to the public.

6 ENHANCING AND GREENING THE PUBLIC REALM GREENING LASALLE TREE PROJECT COMMUNITY PLANTING DAY AWARDS MDID worked with the City of Minneapolis MDID hosted its second annual Community 2015 in 2015 to add 14 trees and retrofit Planting Day at Peavey Plaza on June 13. 22 trees to the scope of the LaSalle The effort is focused on improving WINNERS Avenue reconstruction project. All of greening in the public realm through the trees are planted with sufficient planting flowers, weeding and bringing Best Large Green Space Activation: room for the roots to grow below the community volunteers together. This Target Field Station sidewalk, so the trees can thrive. This year, volunteers from Xcel Energy took Best Small Green Space Activation: is an enhanced greening project that part in the project, among others, and will help add to the public realm along Tangletown Gardens provided leadership Piazza on the Mall LaSalle, which runs parallel between and plants for the event. Peavey Plaza Best Large Green Space: Nicollet Mall and Hennepin Avenue. was more beautiful throughout the summer Loring Greenway months due to their contributions. WASHINGTON AVENUE Best Small Green Space: PROJECT GREENING AWARDS Assisi on 9th Park MDID was part of the design development The sixth annual MDID Greening & Best Outdoor Café: team with the City of Minneapolis and Public Realm Awards included 12 awards Dakota Jazz Club Hennepin County regarding the Washing- and seven brand new recipients. The Best Open Space Green Infrastructure: ton Avenue reconstruction project design, Greening Awards have been a MDID Target Field Station which will include a total street recon- initiative since 2010, and the program's struction of pavement, curb and gutter, purpose is to recognize greening efforts Best Streetscape Green Infrastructure: driveways, storm drains, sidewalks and by businesses and spaces throughout Spoon & Stable signal modifications. The project, located downtown via an online public vote. Best Streetscape Greening: between Hennepin Avenue and 5th Avenue This year’s final tally included 1,312 South, will include enhanced landscap- responses, which broke the previous Central Lutheran Church ing with street trees and planting beds, record for participation by 400 votes. Best Façade Greening: pavers and seating, a protected bikeway For the first time, winners received Kenosha Building and improved crosswalks to enhance the commemorative Greening Award Best Entryway Greening: pedestrian experience. MDID will plaques created by Wood from the Hood, maintain the greening efforts once the a Minneapolis-based company that Aloft Minneapolis project is complete. The project is sched- reclaims discarded trees from urban Best Public Realm Improvement: uled to begin construction work in 2016. neighborhoods and creates high-quality 5th Avenue Lofts/Warehouse Lofts wood products. Best Neighborhood Overall: Loring Park

Annuals, Perennials and Trees Planted in 2015 25,351 Total Since Inception 104,601

Weeds Removed (block faces) in 2015 820 Total Since Inception 9,503 Kenosha Building Community Planting Day

7 KEEPING DOWNTOWN CLEAN, VIBRANT & PEDESTRIAN FRIENDLY

Each year, MDID continues following extended the width of pedestrian space ALIGNING WITH THE through on its commitment to keep on one block face between 5th and 6th 2025 PLAN downtown’s streets clean, welcoming Streets by removing street parking and The Minneapolis Downtown Council’s and pedestrian friendly. MDID works hard replacing it with barriers that added Intersections: The Downtown 2025 to ensure your experience throughout protected space for people walking and Plan aligns well with MDID’s vision for downtown is positive, whether it be biking. The insights from this project will creating a greener, cleaner and safer through assisting those in need, col- be applied to more permanent changes, downtown. The 2025 Plan has 10 key lecting trash and recyclables, removing with a reconfiguration of the roadway on initiatives it hopes to achieve by the gum spots and pressure washing the the entire corridor by Minneapolis Public year 2025, and among them it includes sidewalks, pilot projects, addressing Works slated for the summer of 2016. six committees focused on development, panhandling, tidying snow and or other downtown experience, enhanced greening helpful actions. MDID works year-round SUPPORTING PATHWAYS and the public realm, transportation, to ensure those who live, work or play in TO PLACES ending street homelessness and downtown have a great experience. Pathways to Places is a collaboration creating a festival of ideas. Through between the City of Minneapolis’ Depart- dedicated work within each committee, 1ST AVENUE WALKWAY ment of Community Planning & Economic PILOT PROJECT The 2025 Plan is making an impact on Development and the Minneapolis Park the overall greening, cleanliness and Through the 1st Avenue Walkway & Recreation Board. Its goal is to bring safety of our downtown area. MDID’s Pilot Project, which ran August through public, private and non-profit stakeholders work complements The 2025 Plan October, MDID partnered with the City of together in an effort to reshape how public vision and works in unison to create Minneapolis and the Warehouse District space is planned and maintained. It will an extraordinary downtown. For more Business Association to learn how to formulate a way to improve greening and information, visit 2025Plan.com or email enhance the pedestrian experience in pedestrian experiences throughout Marybeth Weisberg at mweisberg@ our city’s entertainment hub. Sidewalks downtown. MDID staff and volunteers downtownminneapolis.com to discuss along 1st Avenue support heavy pedes- participate on Pathways to Places’ Steering volunteer opportunities. trian traffic on weekend evenings as well Committee and Technical Advisory as before and after major sporting and Committee, working to lay the groundwork entertainment events in the area. The for future public realm improvements. project, referred to as “Walk This Way,”

Bags of Trash Recycling Bags Graffiti Tags Gum Spots Removed in 2015 Filled in 2015 Removed in 2015 Removed in 2015 20,655 2,967 4,769 16,740 Total Since Inception Total Since Inception Total Since Inception Total Since Inception: 231,592 11,844 35,920 479,080

8 SAFETY COLLABORATIONS THROUGHOUT DOWNTOWN

MDID emphasizes safety in downtown DOWNTOWN CAMERA through collaboration and commitment. REGISTRY The Minneapolis SafeZone Collaborative SAFEZONE COLLABORATION The Downtown Camera Registry, which helps bring public, private and non-profit IN 2015 BY THE NUMBERS: MDID launched in 2014, is a tool that organizations together in an effort to keep connects MDID Fusion Center with public Safety Workshops: 70 downtown safe. Several key initiatives and private security cameras throughout help achieve this goal. Downtown 100 Crime downtown. There are currently more than Reduction: 72% MDID FUSION CENTER 500 cameras on the registry equating to $1.2 million worth of assets. It is funded Police Reserves Positive Citizen The MDID Fusion Center, located within by MDID and maintained through both Contacts: 1,600 the Minneapolis Police Department’s MDID and MPD staff. 1st Precinct, serves as a downtown Number of Downtown Camera safety information hub. Dispatch ST. STEPHEN’S STREET Registry Cameras Used to Help Ambassadors work inside the MDID OUTREACH Investigations: 181 Fusion Center 365 days a year, responding Working with St. Stephen’s Homeless RadioLINK Collaborative to pedestrian requests, tracking weather Street Outreach, MDID focuses on Communications: 5,475 and emergency alerts, communicating providing a place of first contact with with outreach services, monitoring individuals experiencing street home- public area cameras and collaborating lessness and for concerned community with private security. members. The collaboration helps RADIOLINK provide food, clothing, shelter, response YOUTHLINK STREET to non-emergency calls and more. OUTREACH It is estimated that there are 13 security officers for every one law enforcement MPD POLICE RESERVES In 2015, MDID teamed with YouthLINK officer on the street here in downtown. to launch the Youth Outreach Program. MDID and MPD work together to create RadioLINK offers a way to connect This initiative, a pilot program, aims to a community engagement program private and public security systems easily connect the city’s youth with resources collaborating with the MPD Police and effectively. It is coordinated through the they need to find independence. Outreach Reserves. It aims to increase visibility on City of Minneapolis’ Radio Communications workers are individuals who have or are Nicollet Mall and the Warehouse District Electronics department, and the MDID experiencing homelessness. Current during the summer and fall. Goals include Fusion Center serves as the central point funding will allow for the program to run improved public safety efforts, security of the RadioLINK system. through the end of 2016. communication through RadioLINK, and both public and private collaborations. DOWNTOWN 100 CHRONIC OFFENDERS YCB YOUTH STREET OUTREACH This program allows a dedicated prosecutor and probation officer to be assigned MDID and the Youth Coordinating Board to up to the top 100 downtown offenders. (YCB) partner to provide a Street Outreach It is a collaboration between the MDID, Program throughout the summer. The MPD, Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office, program connects high school age youth Hennepin County Community Corrections, with activities and resources along Nicollet St. Stephen’s Human Services, the Mall, and it aims to interrupt the behavior Salvation Army, 1st Precinct neighborhood cycle of youth who are disruptive or associations and other community and disengaged downtown by connecting them business stakeholders. with meaningful activities and resources.

9 AMBASSADORS

The MDID Ambassadors are friendly faces downtown—people who are approachable and welcoming. They can offer suggestions for things to do, help with directions, and even open doors for you if your hands are full. The Clean Ambassadors focuses on making downtown shine, and the Safe Ambassadors are on hand to keep an eye out for you and your surroundings.

The MDID Ambassadors are a wide variety of people with one common goal: They love downtown. Our Ambassadors bring unique talents and interests to their work. The most important quality for an Ambassador is to have a friendly, helpful demeanor.

Congratulations, Ada! 2015 MDID Ambassador of the Year

Ada Townsend, 2015 MDID Ambassador of the Year Ada Townsend was chosen as the 2015 Ambassador of the Year. Ada began working as a MDID Ambassador 4 ½ years ago, and she will celebrate her fifth anniversary in June. She serves as a Safety Ambassador, and in 2015 she helped 2,809 people with directions, assistance, and recommendations. She has a love and passion for her work, and she strives to give the best service to everyone she encounters. She goes out every morning with a big smile and a positive attitude regardless of rain, snow, or cold.

“I like the interconnection between businesses and our customers downtown. I like the collaboration with the city, police and first responders. Pedestrians Assisted We all work together, collaborating in 2015 in a harmonious way, to improve 84,865 [Downtown] Minneapolis.” Total Since Inception — Ada Townsend, 2015 MDID Ambassador of the Year, in Minneapolis 738,879 Star Tribune, February 13, 2016

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a MDID Ambassador, visit MinneapolisDID.com/ambassadors to learn more about the application process.

LIVABILITY TEAM

A Livability Team Supervisor was hired in assess why the situation is happening and the Fall of 2015 to lead the new livability help facilitate appropriate connections team, which will be charged with being which could include MDID Ambassadors, a voice and a presence on the downtown property owners, street outreach entities streets, helping to connect those in need or law enforcement. Four methods by with the proper resources. The team will which the Livability Team assesses situa- respond to calls that take place in public tions include social services/intervention, locations and provide property owners education, Crime Prevention Through with valuable information that can benefit Environmental Design (CPTED) and law them in managing their private spaces enforcement. around downtown. The team will also

10 LOOKING FORWARD

Over the course of 2015, MDID contributed and Washington Avenue. MDID was a in connecting available social services, to a wide variety of initiatives and projects sponsor of the downtown event and private security and law enforcement in focused on enhancing the overall offered a place for people to stop and this overall effort. Your responses in our downtown experience while impacting tell us about their hopes for the future annual MDID Perception Survey help us real and perceived safety throughout the of downtown. Some discussed safety, learn more about issues that impact you district. Looking ahead to 2016, several others requested more greening and a the most, and we encourage you to of these initiatives gained great traction stronger pedestrian experience. Those complete the survey annually to help with over the past year and have potential for who took part had their ideas shared the direction of our overall initiatives. creating an even more vibrant downtown through social media. experience in the years to come. We continue to work in concert with • Downtown Skating Rink — For the first The 2025 Plan in an effort to improve One area in which MDID expanded its time in decades, downtown Minneapolis the overall greening and public realm, participation in this past year was had an outdoor skating rink beginning transportation and downtown experience. engagement in downtown activities and in late-November 2015 and extending We're working to help those experiencing events. For the first time, MDID took part through the skating season. The rink, homelessness, and we will continue to in several events using non-assessment located in Loring Park, was sponsored help create an extraordinary downtown funding that not only helped bring people by nine local organizations including within the scope of our operating plan. downtown but also advanced our overall MDID and the Minneapolis SafeZone initiatives of a green, clean and safe Collaborative. The rink offered an We’re excited about the progress downtown, community. A few examples of this include: opportunity for all ages to come skate and we enjoy working among the many for free throughout the winter from people who are truly committed to the • Northern Spark — Each year, North- Thanksgiving to March. betterment of our district. As downtown ern Spark brings tens of thousands of continues to grow and thrive, it is people downtown stretching from the These initiatives were well-received, and important to continue adding to the Mississippi Riverfront through the city the feedback we heard was positive. MDID overall vibrancy, energy and safety of our to enjoy an all-night festival that lights is looking to make this programming a neighborhoods. We appreciate all you up the night. MDID sponsored the part of our scope for 2016 as a result of do to ensure downtown thrives, and we activities taking place at the Northern the positive responses we’ve noticed from look forward to working with you today, Spark Electronic playground inside our 2015 engagement. The popularity of tomorrow and in the future to help keep Peavey Plaza, which included Human these events, coupled by the importance our city competitive, thriving and a model Foosball, Revolver Write Fight, a video of perceived safety, lead us to conclude community for other markets. game station and more. MDID Ambas- that these initiatives should continue in sadors were on site helping direct our overall operating plan. people as well as provide them with information about the city and MDID. We’re continuing to work with the City of Minneapolis, Minneapolis Downtown • Open Streets — Open Streets Council and local stakeholders as it “DID is really a major contributor Minneapolis is an annual event that pertains to the ongoing work on to the safety, cleanliness and brings community and local businesses Nicollet Mall. The progress of this project friendliness to those of [us] that live together in an effort to close major will continue throughout 2016. We are roads throughout the city to car traffic committed to working on Nicollet Mall downtown.” — Downtown Resident and open them up to pedestrian, biking, livability issues in alignment with the skating and activities. For the first overall reconstruction of Nicollet. The time, Open Streets came downtown in impact of our Livability Team in its first “I truly believe this is an awesome year of operation has made great strides 2015 and was located along 1st Avenue program for our city. We should continue the MDID, it makes Minneapolis a nicer community.” — Downtown Employee

“The DID Ambassadors are fabulous!! They are friendly, helpful, and are a comforting presence. I love having them downtown!!” — Downtown Employee

Open Streets Dowtown Skating Rink

11 “I just wanted to give a big FINANCIAL STATEMENT thank you to the Ambassador who approached me on the 2015 2016 street last week when I was hunting for the Swedish City Contract City Contract City Contract Budget Actual Variance Budget Institute. It was my first time Service Charges $6,184,025 $6,184,025 — $6,038,153 in Minneapolis and I was a Other ­— 271,870 271,870 — little turned around leaving my hotel. He found the Total Sources $6,184,025 $6,455,895 $271,870 $6,038,153 address for where I was Safe 2,470,376 2,509,585 39,209 2,662,990 going and walked me to the Clean 1,177,244 1,152,225 (25,019) 1,221,123 appropriate bus stop. He Green 575,000 554,242 (20,758) 388,000 even waited with me for the Maintenance of Public Areas 456,500 229,709 (226,791) 181,250 bus to arrive to make sure it Snow 351,500 258,707 (92,793) 261,500 was the correct one. I learned Communications 60,000 39,696 (20,304) 45,000 a lot from the Ambassador about the city also and felt Program Management 767,340 768,682 1,342 835,000 like I was able to navigate Administration 326,065 318,459 (7,606) 293,290 much easier after that on my Contingency — ­— — 150,000 own. Thank you DID for a job Reserves Funded — 624,590 624,590 — well done!" Total District Uses $6,184,025 $6,455,895 $271,870 $6,038,153 — Downtown Visitor Sources in Excess of Uses — — 289,988 —

The combined 2015 financial activity of the Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District and Minneapolis SafeZone Collaborative received an unmodified opinion in an audit by Schechter Dokken Kanter. To receive a copy of the audited statements please contact Kathryn Reali at 612.338.3807 or [email protected].

12 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bob Rolston - Honeywell Mike Ryan – Ryan Companies US, Inc. Tom Hoch (Chair) – Hennepin Theatre Trust John Saunders – United Properties Phil Trier (Vice Chair) – U.S. Bank Mark Schindele – Target Corporation Mic Anselmo – CBS Radio Kathleen Schmidlkofer – University of Minnesota Foundation Deputy Chief Medaria Arradondo – Minneapolis Police Department Kenneth Sorensen – Mortenson Construction Collin Barr – Ryan Companies US, Inc. Kirsten Spreck – Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Maureen Bausch –MN Super Bowl Host Committee Al Swintek – CenterPoint Energy Elizabeth Brama – Briggs & Morgan PA Melvin Tennant – Meet Minneapolis Ralph Burnet – Coldwell Banker Burnet Sandra Vargas – Minneapolis Foundation John Campobasso – Kraus-Anderson John Wheaton – Faegre Baker Daniels, LLP Bill Chopp – Hines Interests Tom Whitlock – Damon Farber Associates Mike Christenson – Minneapolis Community and David Wilson – Accenture Technical College Amy Wimmer – Hines Interests Michael Clark – CSM Corporation David Wright – U.S. Bank Jay Cowles III – Unity Avenue Associates Shelly Crowley – MSP Communications EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Laura Day – Minnesota Twins Tom Hoch (Chair) – Hennepin Theatre Trust Jim Durda – Zeller Realty Group Phil Trier (Vice Chair) – U.S. Bank Helen Eddy – Macy's Collin Barr – Ryan Companies US, Inc. Kweilin Ellingrud – McKinsey & Company Elizabeth Brama – Briggs and Morgan, PA Christine Fleming – Be The Match Foundation Bill Chopp – Hines Interests Jeff Gendreau – Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Jay Cowles III – Unity Avenue Associates Rebecca Greco –HGA Architects and Engineers Laura Day – Minnesota Twins John Griffith – Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority Jeff Gendreau – Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Brent Hanson – Wells Fargo Bank, NA John Griffith – Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority Kathleen Harrington – Mayo Clinic Brent Hanson – Wells Fargo Bank, NA Timothy Hart-Andersen – Westminster Presbyterian Church Brian Mallaro – Deloitte & Touche LLP Blake Hastings – CBRE Russ Nelson – NTH Inc. Jeannie Joas – JB Hudson Jewelers Becky Roloff – YWCA of Minneapolis Robert Jones – TCF National Bank Mike Ryan – Ryan Companies US, Inc. Judy Karon – Downtown Resident Mark Schindele – Target Corporation Paul Kasbohm – Star Tribune Media Company, LLC Kenneth Sorensen – Mortenson Construction Summer Kath – Cambria Al Swintek – CenterPoint Energy Steven Katz – Barnes & Thornburg LLP Sandra Vargas – Minneapolis Foundation Trisha Kirk – Guthrie Theater John Wheaton – Faegre Baker Daniels, LLP Todd Klingel – Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce David Wilson – Accenture Rebecca Kolis – Be The Match Foundation Amy Wimmer – Hines Interests Steve LaCroix – Minnesota Vikings David Wright – U.S. Bank Kevin Lewis – Business Owners & Management Association Bob Lux – Alatus, LLC FINANCE COMMITTEE Tim Mahoney – The Loon Café & WDBA Brian Mallaro (Chair) – Deloitte & Touche LLP Brian Mallaro – Deloitte & Touche LLP Collin Barr – Ryan Companies Steve Mattson – Target Center Elizabeth Brama – Briggs and Morgan, PA Laura McCarten – Xcel Energy Jeff Gendreau (Vice Chair) – Baker Tilly Virchow Krause,LLP Cora McCorvey – Minneapolis Public Housing Authority Brent Hanson – Wells Fargo Bank, NA Sianneh Mulbah – Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Lynx Tom Hoch – Hennepin Theatre Trust Time Murnane – The Opus Group Kimberly Motes – University of St. Thomas Russ Nelson – NTH Inc. Michael Noble – Best Western Plus Normandy Inn & Suites OPERATIONS & SERVICES BUDGET COMMITTEE Dave Norback – RSP Architects, Ltd David Wright (Chair) – U.S. Bank Brian Pietsch – Ameriprise Financial Nancy Aleksuk – Swervo Development Judy Poferl – Xcel Energy Maren Anderson – City of Minneapolis Jon Pryor – Hennepin County Medical Center Christopher Campbell – Firstservice Residential Ronnie Ragoff – Shorenstein Realty Services, LP John Campobasso – Kraus-Anderson Becky Roloff – YWCA of Minneapolis Dave Dabson – Piedmont Office Realty Trust

13 Jeff Gendreau – Baker Tilly Virchow Kraus, LLP Jeff Gendreau – Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Brette Hjelle – City of Minneapolis Brent Hanson – Wells Fargo Bank, NA Tom Hoch – Hennepin Theatre Trust Kevin Lewis – Business Owners & Managers Association Dave Horseman – Minnesota Twins John Luke – Hilton Minneapolis Joanne Kaufman – Warehouse District Business Association Amy Wimmer – Hines Interests John Luke – Hilton Minneapolis David Wright – U.S. Bank Mike Maney – Ryan Companies US, Inc. Jane Mauer – Tartan Investment Company MANAGEMENT TEAM Ronnie Ragoff – Shorenstein Realty Services, LP Steve Cramer – Chief Executive Officer Nils Snyder – Colliers International Kathryn Reali – Chief Operating Officer Kirsten Spreck – Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Leah Wong – VP of Events & Marketing John Sweeney – Brave New Workshop Jesse Osendorf – Director of Operations Herb Tousley – University of St. Thomas Ben Shardlow – Director of Public Realm Initiatives Steve Trulen – Target Corporation Shane Zahn – Director of Safety Initaitives Amy Wimmer – Hines Interests John Blair – Office Manager Kristi Haug – Manager of Stakeholder Operations SAFEZONE ADVISORY COMMITTEE Mark Remme – Communications Manager Mike Maney (Chair) – Ryan Companies US, Inc. Anna Cramer – Intern Deputy Chief Medaria Arradondo – Minneapolis Police Department Lisa Ashley – Messerli & Kramer SPONSORS & DONORS Rick Bertram – Marriott City Center Hotel Ameriprise Financial Ron Cunningham – Hennepin County CenterPoint Energy Jim Durda – Zeller Realty Group dotcom.printing, Inc Mark Griffin – Hennepin County Hennepin County Chief John Harrington – Metro Transit Police Loring Green East Jeff Heinrich – Block By Block Marketing Minneapolis, LLC David Jeffries – St. Stephen's Human Services Minneapolis Downtown Council Heidi Johnston – City of Minneapolis Mineapolis Foundation Steven Katz – Barnes & Thornburg, PLLP Standard Heating Joanne Kaufman – Warehouse District Business Association Tangletown Gardens Inspector Mike Kjos – Minneapolis Police Department Target Mark Krause – Target Corporation YWCA Minneapolis Kevin Lewis – Business Owners & Managers Association Morgan Miller – Hennepin County COMMUNITY PARTNERS Susan Segal – Minneapolis City Attorney The work done by MDID can only be successful if it leverages, Kevin Stewart – Shorenstein Realty Services, LP complements and supports the work of others with a mission Jeff Storms – Hennepin County of making downtown better. MDID is grateful for the working Paul Thigpen – Xcel Energy relationship it has with many organizations, including: Blueprint for Community Action, BOMA Minneapolis, City of Minneapolis, TACTICAL URBANISM ADVISORY COMMITTEE Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA), East Downtown Council, Elliot Park Neighborhood Association, Renee Allen – City of Minneapolis Friends of Loring Park, Friends of Triangle Park, Heading Home Nicholas Cichowicz – Downtown Minneapolis Hennepin, Hennepin County, Hennepin County Library, Hennepin Neighborhood Association County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), Hennepin Theatre Trust, Dan Collison – East Dowtown Council Juxtaposition Arts, Loring Greenway Association, Meet Minneapolis, Carol Hejl – Metro Transit Metro Transit, Metro Transit Police Department, Minneapolis Bike Brette Hjelle – City of Minneapolis Coalition, Minneapolis Downtown Council, Minneapolis Farmers David Jeffries – St. Stephen's Human Services Market, Minneapolis Foundation, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB), Minneapolis Parks Foundation, Minneapolis Police Joanne Kaufman – Warehouse District Business Association Department, Minneapolis Police Reserves, Minneapolis Public Lacy Shelby – City of Minneapolis, CPED Schools, Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce, Minnesota Jennifer Swanson – City of Minneapolis, Public Works Youth Leadership Academy, The Musicant Group, Nice Ride Minnesota, North Loop Neighborhood Association, Northern STRATEGIC PLAN TASK FORCE Lights.mn, Police Activities League (PAL), St. Stephen’s Human Tom Hoch (Chair) – Hennepin Theatre Trust Services, Trust for Public Land (TPL), University of Minnesota, Nancy Aleksuk – Swervo Development Urban Land Institute (ULI), Warehouse District Business Association (WDBA), Youth Coordinating Board (YCB), and YouthLink. Dave Dabson – Piedmont Office Realty Trust

We have used our best efforts to acknowledge everyone in this report. If you’re missing or incorrectly listed, please accept our apologies and let us know so we can correct our error in future publications. 14 “Minneapolis has REALLY become cleaner, safer and overall nicer. I lived downtown in the early 90s, moved out of state and when we came back the changes were amazing.” — Downtown Resident

“Kudos for the magnificent flower plant- ings on the Nicollet Mall. I believe in all the years (37) that I have lived on the Mall these are the most breathtaking baskets and planters we have ever had displayed. Even with all the surfaces being torn up the planters bring beauty for all of us to enjoy.” — Downtown Resident

“An Ambassador did a GREAT job helping me this morning! Not only was he friendly, he went above and beyond to make sure he was able to jumpstart my car. Sometimes things out of control happen (dead battery in my case) and it’s so awesome that MDID provides this support and does its best to keep the city clean. Hats off to a great community improvement project. Thanks for all that you do!!” — Downtown Employee

At MDID we strive to be economically and environmentally sustainable. We have a limited quantity of our printed annual reports available, choosing instead to post our full report in PDF format on our website. If you know of someone without access to the web, please direct them to us and we will gladly provide a printed copy.

To learn more about the MDID or to provide important feedback about our services, please contact us at:

Business Office: 612.338.3807 | Ambassador Hotline: 612.332.1111 81 South 9th St. #260 Minneapolis, MN 55402 [email protected] www.MinneapolisDID.com

Photo Credits: Kurt Moses Photography, Adam Bettcher Photography and Dusty Hoskovec Photography